Charlotte’s New Light Rail

LYNX map

In keeping with Charlotte's cat theme (Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Bobcats, CATS [Charlotte Area Transit System]), a new light rail, LYNX has become our new favorite means of transportation in the city!  Connectivity is key (hence the name, LYNX) in getting the city's south end into the city during rush hours. 

In November, 2007, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) began operation of the 9.6-mile LYNX Blue Line light rail, after having been under construction since February, 2005.  The LYNX fleet includes sixteen Avanto light rail cars built by Siemens.  The line extends from Uptown Charlotte southward to Pineville and runs almost parallel to I-77.  Previously used by the Charlotte Trolley, a heritage streetcar operation that will run in tandem service with the LYNX trains beginning in spring 2008.city view with LYNX

This model is patterned by those in Houston, Texas, and has also been ordered by the city of Portland, Oregon.  Charlotteans have enthusiastically embraced the light rail after much ado about county expenditures to build the system.  This was demonstrated by the opening month’s records of carrying over 9,000 passenger trips per day.  CATS projects over 18,000 passenger riders by the year 2025.  Visit Charlotte Center City Partners website for a LYNX interactive map.  

Uptown Conv Ctr Station

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

photo by Jon Bell

Real estate surrounding the light rail stations has shown a boost in sales prices, contributing, once again, to Charlotte’s smart plans to maintain economic stability.  Rush hour traffic and major sporting events in the Uptown area as well as concerts and other functions at the arena, are contributory to our much needed new light rail as well as its early success. 

light rail close up

 

 Photo by Todd Sumlin

 

 

The LYNX line has 15 stations, sharing its track with the Charlotte Trolley from the Atherton Mill station to the 7th Street station.  The 9.6 mile opening phase is planned to expand to reach 36th Street by 2013 and I-485 at UNCC by 2018.  With 14 stations planned, the corridor will be 14 miles long by 2018.  Come ride the light rail and check out our beautiful city with me--we'll take a tour of some of our gorgeous homes while you're here!

 

About the author: 

Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte Residential Real Estate, Certified Neighborhood and Relocation Specialist who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Charlotte, NC or any place in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.  Debe has created a team of professionals throughout the country to ensure that you enjoy a smooth transition to your new area. These professionals are experts in the field of relocation and can serve many purposes beyond a simple home search.  The destination service is of no cost to you!  Please visit www.debemaxwell.com/ for your relocation and/or your local needs. 

Debe Maxwell- HELEN ADAMS REALTY - 704.491.3310 - Debe@DebeMaxwell.com

 

 

9 Comments on Charlotte, NC Relocation Information: Light Rail Transportation

JAN
28
2008
174,339 Points 9 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Debe ~ Good information; I know that the Long Island Railroad and public transportation is very important to many people here on Long Island.
8:26am • #1
1 Featured Post
Debe this was cool.  I learned something new. Now if I ever visit I will be better informed.
10:16am • #2
334,661 Points 58 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Linda:  Thanks!  We had quite the public debate about whether or not to build the rail system but, those with foresight won and thankfully so!  Everyone is pleased with the light rail and we're thoroughly enjoying it!

Kathy:  As I recall, our mayor made a visit to Long Island while gathering information on light rail systems across the country.  We love it here as well!

        

 

10:46am • #3
120,503 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Debe~What a great post on the light rail system in your area.  I'm impressed that the real estate prices have taken a boost with being near the light rail.  That gives me great hope for what is to come in August 2008 in our city. All area residence have been greatly concerned with what is going to be the outcome for our city. Thank YOU for the optimism and sharing your wonderful city with us. 
10:54am • #4
334,661 Points 58 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Our Uptown area is booming right now, Julie, and prices are too high for some but, with the light rail system, they can afford to live out a bit with a quick commute into town now.  Alot of investors had the foresight to buy up some of the property near the rail and have build condos/townhomes around there which are selling wonderfully now. 

  

11:06am • #5
5 Featured Posts

This is terrific information. You may also want to post this into markets such as New York and California! They would want to get this info!

Ed Nailor - Charlotte Relocation Mortgages

2:20pm • #6
334,661 Points 58 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Thanks, Ed!  How do I select both (NY, CA AND NC)?

2:33pm • #7
1 Featured Post
Nice job Debe.. Our new light rail line is scheduled to open in December here in AZ. Very interesting project that has been fun to follow. Thanks for sharing..
2:37pm • #8
334,661 Points 58 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

You know, Nick, I have been trying to update my relocation package for quite some time.  Despite the awesome one that my company provides, I wanted to do the research myself so that I stayed on top of the developments and changes in the city.  This project just prompted me to get it done sooner rather than later!

2:52pm • #9

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Debe Maxwell, Realtor® Let's Talk CHARLOTTE!

Charlotte, NC

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Helen Adams Realty

Address: 2301 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC, 28207

Office Phone: (704) 491-3310

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